A wrong move by some northern lecturers

A group of over 600 senior academics from universities across Northern Nigeria have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid, according to reports. The endorsement took place at a meeting convened by Ibrahim Masari, special adviser to the president on political matters, with several northern governors and federal ministers in attendance.

The situation is concerning for Daily Trust as academics traditionally play a significant role in Nigeria's electoral system. However, the outlet does not dispute the right of academics or any group to support a political cause. The main concern is the potential impact this endorsement could have on the credibility of the electoral process.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) relies on academics' professional standing and presumed neutrality when selecting returning and collation officers. If these academics are perceived as endorsing a presidential candidate, it could create doubt about the integrity of the elections. INEC must investigate the identities and roles of those involved and consider whether they should be entrusted with collating or declaring results for the 2027 elections.

The controversy is not isolated, as this endorsement aligns with a broader pattern of political backing by influential groups, including northern religious figures and students. While political mobilisation is not inherently wrong, when institutions and groups whose members influence citizens repeatedly attach themselves to partisan campaigns, it can have unintended consequences.

This controversy also comes at a time when the country's intellectual community is facing economic challenges. Despite the hardships, academics must protect the institutions whose credibility is crucial to democracy. INEC should establish clear criteria for handling prospective electoral officials who have taken open partisan positions to maintain public confidence in the process and protect the neutrality of the 2027 elections.